a weak connection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a weak connection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship, link, or bond that lacks strength or stability, whether in a physical, emotional, or metaphorical context. Example: "The data showed a weak connection between the two variables, indicating that one does not significantly influence the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

"Maybe it's not a complete disconnect but it's a weak connection".

The Guardian

But an analysis of counties showed a weak connection between exercise and obesity.

The Economist

The machine was restricted to 7TeV collisions after a weak connection led to a short circuit that caused an explosion less than two weeks after it was first switched on in September 2008.

The Guardian

The instructions are good, but they should explain to you that when you first use the paint there's bound to be a problem - a short-circuit or a weak connection, and say: "Look, almost certainly you're not going to get it right first time, don't panic".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A weak connection was also shown for PFOS and development of preeclampsia.

Environmental Sciences Europe

SIR: Seligman suggests the idea of a weak connection between money and happiness goes back to Adam Smith.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Assuming a weaker connection would simply tend to diminish the correlation with the degree of connectivity.

BMC Systems Biology

They also found that the association diminished over time — later studies generally showed a weaker connection than earlier ones between child-parent pairs.

The New York Times - Health

The low temperature interval of 30 200 °C, which corresponded to weakly and strongly bound water showed a strong connection with clay content, but a weaker connection to microbial activity.

Geoderma

In the former, a stronger commitment to the host country necessarily implies a weaker connection to the country of origin and vice versa.

IZA Journal of Migration

For the period since 2000 in particular, they postulate a weaker connection between supply and demand and greater emphasis on economic interests and/or on need criteria by the enterprises.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a weak connection", ensure the context clearly defines what is being connected and why the connection is considered weak. Provide supporting evidence or explanation to strengthen your claim.

Common error

Avoid drawing strong conclusions based solely on "a weak connection". Acknowledge the limitations of the relationship and avoid implying causality or significant impact without sufficient evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a weak connection" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a relationship or association that is characterized by a lack of strength or significance, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a weak connection" is a noun phrase used to describe a relationship or association lacking strength or significance. Ludwig indicates that it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, including science, news media, and general discussions. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overstating the implications of such a connection and to provide sufficient context when using the phrase. Related phrases such as "a tenuous link" or "a slight association" can provide alternative ways to express this concept. Finally, it's important to be aware of common errors such as drawing strong conclusions based solely on the "a weak connection".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fragile connection

Emphasizes vulnerability and the ease with which the connection can be broken.

a tenuous link

Highlights the insubstantial and uncertain nature of the connection.

a slight association

Focuses on the minimal degree of correlation or relationship.

a loose tie

Suggests a connection that is not firmly established or maintained.

a superficial bond

Implies a lack of depth or meaningful engagement in the connection.

a limited relationship

Underscores the restricted scope or extent of the connection.

a minimal correlation

Highlights the very small statistical relationship between variables.

an unsubstantial relationship

Emphasizes the lack of a solid basis or significance in the connection.

a negligible association

Suggests the connection is so small it can be ignored.

a circumstantial link

Points out that the connection depends on specific circumstances and may not be generally true.

FAQs

How can I use "a weak connection" in a sentence?

You can use "a weak connection" to describe a relationship or association that is not strong or significant. For example: "The study found "a weak connection" between diet and exercise."

What are some alternatives to saying "a weak connection"?

Alternatives include "a tenuous link", "a slight association", or "a fragile connection", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a weak connection" in formal writing?

Yes, "a weak connection" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing data, relationships, or associations that lack strong correlation or significance. However, ensure the context supports the claim.

What does it mean when there is "a weak connection" between two things?

When there is "a weak connection" between two things, it means the relationship or association is not strong, consistent, or reliable. This implies that changes in one do not necessarily cause significant changes in the other.